Man Utd Women win promotion to top-tier WSL just one year after being founded

MANCHESTER UNITED have secured promotion to the Women's Super League – a year after the team was founded.

The Red Devils have clinched to one of the top two spots in the Championship after beating Aston Villa 5-0.

PA:Press Association2 Man Utd women's side celebrate their promotion to the Women's Super LeaguePA:Press Association2 Charlie Devlin (right) settled the result at 5-0 in the second half

United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward announced the club's plans to create a women's side in March 2018.

One year on and the club are now heading to the English top-tier after the Red Devils demolished Aston Villa in front of 1,401 home fans at Leigh Sports Village.

Casey Stoney's side led 3-0 at half-time thanks to goals from Millie Turner, Jessica Sigsworth and Alex Greenwood's own goal.

Meanwhile, Ella Toone and Charlie Devlin netted in the second half to seal the team's 15th win of the season.

United's license is yet to be approved, but the side are expected to meet all the FA's criteria.

WSL promotion has always been the primary target after significant funds were pumped into the team.

But Old Trafford chiefs intentionally decided last year to launch the fully-professional side a level below – in the newly-created Women's Championship.

It was to allow Stoney, who was appointed as head coach in June last year, to gradually build a team competitive enough to take on top clubs in the country.

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The Red Devils have dominated the Championship and are just one victory away from claiming the title.

They have dropped just five points throughout the season and lead second-placed Tottenham by seven.

Among United's most notable results are the 12-0 rout of Aston Villa in September and 9-0 victory over London Bees in January.